Ferry Building
Vendors sell produce, cheese, coffee, candy & prepared food in this soaring, restored 1898 space.
Ferry Building is rated 4.6 / 5 from 38,249 Google reviews and sits about 1.7 km (21 min walk) from Powell St station.
General overview
About Ferry Building
The Ferry Building is a historic landmark and waterfront marketplace at the foot of Market Street in San Francisco. Built in 1898, it is known for its clock tower, restored architecture, food vendors, shops, restaurants, farmers markets, and ferry connections. Admission to the building and marketplace is generally free; visitors pay separately for food, shopping, tours, or ferry transportation. None of the information below is live-verified.
- Historic 1898 Beaux-Arts ferry terminal and landmark clock tower
- Ferry Building Marketplace with artisan food producers, restaurants, cafés, and specialty shops
- Waterfront location with views of San Francisco Bay, the Bay Bridge, and the Embarcadero
- Farmers markets, especially the well-known Saturday market operated by the Center for Urban Education about Sustainable Agriculture (CUESA)
- Ferry service connections to destinations around the Bay, operated separately from the marketplace
Things to do here
Explore the Ferry Building Marketplace
Browse specialty food shops, bakeries, cafés, restaurants, and local artisan businesses inside the historic terminal.
See the historic architecture and clock tower
Admire the restored interior, vaulted spaces, historic details, and exterior clock tower from the Embarcadero and waterfront.
Farmers market visit
Shop for produce, prepared foods, baked goods, flowers, and local products at recurring farmers markets outside and around the building.
Waterfront and Bay Bridge views
Walk along the Embarcadero outside the building for waterfront scenery and views toward the Bay Bridge and Oakland.
Ferry transportation
Use nearby ferry gates for service to destinations such as Alameda, Oakland, Vallejo, and other Bay Area communities, depending on route schedules.
Dining and coffee
Have breakfast, lunch, snacks, coffee, or a special meal at businesses within or adjacent to the marketplace.
The building is at the Embarcadero and Market Street and is well served by Muni Metro, buses, and nearby BART connections. Allow extra time for weekend crowds, farmers markets, restaurant waits, and ferry boarding. San Francisco weather can be cool and windy even in summer.
No reservation is normally needed to enter. Reservations may be advisable for popular restaurants, guided experiences, or special events. Check ferry schedules and fares in advance if using the terminal for transportation.
This overview is general knowledge, not confirmed against an official source — verify hours, prices and entry rules before you go.
Photo gallery
See it before you go
Most asked
How to reach
Ferry Building is about 1.7 km (~21 min walk) from Powell St station on the BART (San Francisco Bay Area).
Before you go
Good to know
Verify tickets, seasonal hours, entry rules, and special events on the official website before visiting.
Pair it up
Also near this station
San Francisco Marriott Marquis
Hotels · 3 min walk
★ 4.3
Hilton San Francisco Union Square
Hotels · 4 min walk
★ 4.2
Union Square
Places to visit · 5 min walk
★ 4.4
The Grove Restaurant & Bar
Restaurants · 6 min walk
★ 4.4
Palace Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel, San Francisco
Hotels · 8 min walk
★ 4.5
Fairmont San Francisco
Hotels · 11 min walk
★ 4.5
Frequently asked questions
How do I get to Ferry Building from Powell St station?
Ferry Building is about 1688 m (roughly 21 min walk) from Powell St station on the BART (San Francisco Bay Area). Use the directions link on this page for turn-by-turn walking directions.
What is Ferry Building rated?
Ferry Building has a Google rating of 4.6 out of 5 from 38,249 reviews.
What's near Ferry Building?
Also within a short walk of the same station: San Francisco Marriott Marquis, Hilton San Francisco Union Square, Union Square.
Is Ferry Building wheelchair accessible?
Yes — Google lists the following accessibility features for Ferry Building: wheelchair-accessible entrance, wheelchair-accessible parking, wheelchair-accessible restroom, wheelchair-accessible seating.
Is there parking near Ferry Building?
Google lists these parking options near Ferry Building: paid parking lot, free street parking, paid street parking.
Is Ferry Building good for children?
Yes — Google lists Ferry Building as good for children.
Is the Ferry Building free to visit?
Yes. Entry to the historic building and public marketplace is generally free. You pay for food, shopping, events, tours, or ferry transportation.
How long should I spend there?
Plan about one to two hours for a basic visit, or longer if you eat, shop, attend a farmers market, walk the Embarcadero, or take a ferry.
What is the best day to visit?
Saturday morning is especially popular because of the farmers market. For fewer crowds, consider a weekday morning, while recognizing that individual tenant hours vary.
Can I take a ferry from the Ferry Building?
Yes, ferry gates near the building serve selected Bay Area routes. The exact routes, fares, and boarding locations are controlled by ferry operators and can change.
Is the Ferry Building suitable for children?
Yes. It is generally family-friendly, with food vendors, open public areas, waterfront walking, and nearby transit attractions. Crowds can be heavy during market periods.
Is there parking?
There is no guarantee of convenient on-site parking. Paid street parking and nearby garages may be available, but public transportation is often easier.
Are all businesses open during the same hours?
No. Marketplace hours are general guidance only; restaurants, shops, the farmers market, and ferry services have separate schedules.
Can I bring a dog inside?
Service animals are generally allowed. Pet access is more restricted in food-service and indoor marketplace areas, so check with staff and individual businesses.
Data and photos from Google Places, generated August 23, 2026. Ratings, hours and prices can change — confirm anything time-sensitive before you go.